A stroke is the result of sudden loss of blood flow to the brain due to blood vessel blockage or clot burst. Loss of blood flow deprives the brain of oxygen and glucose (sugar), and causes rapid buildup of waste products that injure or kill brain cells. When brain cells are injured or die, the bodily functions they control such as speech or use of limbs are impaired or lost. Stroke can also affect your memory, ability to understand and emotions.

Watch for these signs and symptoms if you think you or someone else may be having a stroke:

• Trouble with speaking and understanding
• Paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg
• Trouble with seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden, severe headache

When a patient shows signs of a possible stroke, a Stroke Alert is called, quickly putting the wheels in motion to assemble a specialized team, consult a neurologist, and perform a CT scan to diagnose the type of stroke. Depending on the type of stroke, patients may receive medication to quickly dissolve the clot and restore blood flow to the brain.

B.E. F.A.S.T. stands for:

BALANCE: Is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination? 

EYES: Are there sudden vision changes?

FACE: Is the face or smile lopsided? 

ARMS: Does one arm droop?

SPEECH: Trouble speaking or is speech slurred? 

TIME: Time to call 911 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.

There are three types of stroke:

• Ischemic strokes are the most common type. They're caused when blood vessels leading to the brain become blocked, preventing oxygen from reaching the brain.
• Transient ischemic attacks(TIAs) are indicators of a high risk for stroke. In a TIA, the blood clot occurs for a short time and resolves itself. Although TIAs are temporary, they're strong indicators of a possible major stroke.
• Hemorrhagic strokes occur when blood vessels in or around the brain break.

Many risk factors can be controlled or treated to reduce your chance of having a stroke:

• High blood pressure – limit salt intake, exercise regularly, and take medications as prescribed
• Tobacco use and smoking – your doctor can offer programs to help you quit
• Alcohol use – do not have more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men
• Diabetes – control your blood sugar through proper diet, exercise and medication
• High cholesterol – eat plenty of fruits and vegetables; reduce intake of red meat, dairy products and eggs; exercise; and take medications as prescribed
• Excessive weight and physical inactivity – try to get 30 minutes of physical activity each day

Safety Alert: iPhone 12 May Affect Pacemakers and Defibrillators

Apple iPhone 12 models and MagSafe Accessories may cause interference with some medical devices including pacemakers and defibrillators when not kept at a safe distance. Apple MagSafe accessories are wireless magnetic charging systems, including wireless chargers that attach magnetically to iPhone devices, cases with built-in components, wallets with built-in components, and leather sleeves with built-in components.

Learn more:

• iPhone 12 and MagSafe Charging Accessories
• iPhone 12 May Affect Pacemakers and Defibrillators

As a Joint Commission certified primary stroke center:

• Our stroke team receives detailed information about a patient's condition from Emergency Medical Services allowing us to be ready the moment our patients pass through the emergency room doors.
• Our team has rapid access to intravenous infusion of Activase®, the only FDA-approved medication for stroke.
• Our stroke team follows the American Stroke Association's Get with the Guidelines Patient Program, improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to the latest scientific treatment guidelines.